Joe Graedon | The Seattle Times

April 21, 2021 at 6:00 am

Chocolate for constipation is not a new idea

In this week’s People’s Pharmacy column, a reader who has used chocolate to treat constipation for decades admits they were surprised to find others did...

March 31, 2021 at 6:00 am

Psyllium works against both diarrhea and constipation

Psyllium fiber is a popular method for controlling constipation. But the home remedy also works to relieve diarrhea, as this People’s Pharmacy attests.

March 24, 2021 at 6:00 am

Testosterone restored missing libido for this reader

When one People’s Pharmacy reader was experiencing depleted libido, a testosterone prescription helped them reactivate their sex life. But the practice of testosterone replacement therapy...

February 24, 2021 at 6:00 am

A splash of Listerine for athlete’s foot

Pouring amber Listerine over fungal infections like athlete’s foot or jock itch is a popular, low-cost home remedy for such ailments.

February 3, 2021 at 6:00 am

Psyllium helps reader treat both heartburn and constipation

Prescribed for constipation, psyllium helped one reader get over their heartburn, too. The soluble fiber can also help control cholesterol levels.

Cocoa powder is displayed at the laboratory at the University of California, Davis in Davis, Calif. Carl Keen, whoserves as chair of the developmental nutrition program at UC Davis, a position funded by the candy giant Mars Inc., said his laboratory’s findings have pushed science forward through establishing that nutrients in cocoa powder can lower heart disease risk.(AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli) CARP103

January 27, 2021 at 6:00 am

Cocoa helped overpower constipation following surgery

Dark chocolate and cocoa are rich in many plant compounds, and in moderation, these treats can help with circulation, cardiovascular health and digestion.

January 20, 2021 at 6:00 am

Beware unexpected triggers for high blood pressure

Mouthwash has been suggested as a trigger for upticks in blood pressure. What’s the science behind the claim — and what other unexpected products can...

January 13, 2021 at 6:00 am

Special toothpaste is said to prevent canker sores

One People’s Pharmacy shares their lifelong journey in pursuit of toothpaste that does not cause canker sores. The answer revealed itself in Paris of all...

December 9, 2020 at 6:00 am

This reader eats an apple a night to keep heartburn at bay

While one People’s Pharmacy reader reports success with eating half of an apple to assuage heartburn, another reader says the fruit only makes things worse.

December 2, 2020 at 6:00 am

Reader uses coconut oil plus milk of magnesia for rosacea

Dermatologists haven’t determined the exact cause of rosacea, which makes the face red and bumpy. One reader had success treating the condition with coconut oil...